The Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance (NEWMA) debuted its newest video spotlighting safety called, ‘Safety First, Always: Our Shared Responsibility. The video was a work product of the NEWMA’s Safety taskforce. The video can be seen at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wS6pNKgTR-A

NEWMA’s Safety taskforce formed in January 2024. The idea was initiated by Mark Callow with Samuel Pressure Vessel Group. He believed that there was a void for safety professionals not having a network of other EHS professionals. He believed NEWMA could fill that void. There are over 60 companies that are actively involved with the taskforce. One of the concerns many of these companies had with new hires, especially those that did not have any manufacturing experience, did not understand the importance of safety in the workplace. In addition, there were many vendors that came into their facilities that did not have proper safety training. It was decided that there should be a universal safety video produced that all manufacturers could use spotlighting the ‘why’ safety is important not only the ‘how’. Ann Franz, executive director of NEWMA stated, ‘Our members wanted to speak in one voice that safety isn’t a guideline, but a core value.’

The companies that are featured in the video are: ErgoFactor, Fosber America, Graetz Manufacturing, Keynecta, Marion Body Works and MARTOR USA. The topics spotlighted are forklift safety, ergonomics, machine guarding, accident prevention, HazCom, emergency procedures, PPE, and using the right tool for the job.

Peter Nickel with Keynecta explained the importance of the video, ‘At Keynecta, we believe an organization’s safety performance is not only defined by its procedures but by the behaviors and commitments of every individual.’ He added, ‘This video powerfully conveys that safety is a shared responsibility, and we are proud to amplify a message that supports our efforts to cultivate an engaged, proactive safety culture.’

For more information regarding the video and other NEWMA resources to www.newmfgalliance.org. Further questions should contact Ann Franz at 920-606-7691 or email franza@uwgb.edu.